Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the 2025 Governor’s Small Business Summit will take place in Orange on April 24. The summit, part of a series held throughout the year in various Texas regions, aims to assist small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs by providing resources and information to start, strengthen, and grow their businesses.

Governor Abbott emphasized the significance of small businesses, stating, “Small businesses are the cornerstone of our vibrant communities and the driving force behind Texas’ booming economy.” He highlighted that Texas houses over 3.3 million small businesses, employing nearly half of the state’s workforce. Abbott encouraged attendance, saying, “Together, we will ensure that our small business community continues to thrive as we build a stronger, more prosperous Texas than ever before.”

The summit in Orange will gather local, state, and federal partners to provide insights on essential business topics. It offers networking opportunities with other business owners and chances to learn from experts providing advice on various small business issues.

Scheduled for Thursday, April 24, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Shahan Events Center in Orange, TX, the summit will cover sessions including "Building a Business: A Business Owner’s Perspective," "Access to Financing: Funding a Growing Business," and "What’s Hot? Marketing & Communication Tools for Small Business." Ty Gipson from The Gipson Group/Waterboy Graphics will deliver the keynote speech titled “Develop a ‘No Options’ Mindset.”

Registration costs $20, granting access to all sessions, resource providers, lunch, and complimentary headshots. For more information and to register, visit gov.texas.gov/events.

The schedule for future Governor’s Small Business Summits includes events in Denison on May 15, Sugar Land on May 29, Hays County on June 12, Bastrop on June 26, Rockport-Fulton on July 10, Waxahachie on July 24, Pharr on August 7, Big Lake on August 21, Eagle Pass on September 11, Carthage on September 25, Dalhart on October 9, Denton for a women-focused event on October 23, and Belton for a veteran-focused event on November 13.

Additionally, the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office and the Office of Small Business Assistance are hosting webinars to provide information about resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Texas. On-demand recordings of past webinars can be accessed at gov.texas.gov/business/page/small-business-webinars.